Paul Austin Kelly – An Irish Tale lyrics

An Irish Tale
Words & Music by P.A. Kelly

Emily, James and Martin
In the heather on the downs
Cold December’s moon is waning
O’er the lights of Irish town
Here’s a pole star to guide you
Follow closely, don’t delay
The time is nigh, my children
For the breaking of the day

James, you lead the others
You were oldest by two years
Though you still cling to your memories
Do not wallow in your tears
Em and Martin, don’t you dally!
It’s time to leave Earthly delights
Light is hugging the horizon
Stealing darkness from our night

Emily, James and Martin
Born to give their mother joy
Born to live for fleeting moments
Darling girl and handsome boys
In the shadow of an instant
In the flicker of an eye
All was lost to them forever
In a final breathless sigh

For the Black Death was upon us
We were in the Reaper’s sway
Twas the rats who ruled the earth
And we but bones they dragged away
Once a family bright and vibrant
Now just spirits in the night
We must live our lives in darkness
Shades that shun celestial light

Emily, James and Martin
In the heather on the downs
Cold December’s moon is waning
O’er the streets of Irish town
Here’s a comet’s tail to ride on
Climb up quickly, don’t delay
Light is hugging the horizon
Soon will break another day